The city of Manhattan Beach has named Erick Lee to the position of Public Works Director. Lee has been serving in an interim capacity in that role since May 1.

“It’s an honor to be selected to serve as the Public Works Director, and I’m thankful that the City Manager and City Council have entrusted me to lead this critical aspect of the City’s operations,” said Lee in a statement. “I look forward to working with our dedicated Public Works team as they continue to provide exemplary services to the Manhattan Beach community.”  

During more than 24 years in local government, Lee has worked in a wide range of operational areas. At the city of Beverly Hills, Lee served as the Deputy Director of Public Works and as a civilian division commander for the police department. Thereafter, Lee served as the executive director of the South Bay Regional Public Communications Authority overseeing emergency dispatch operations for the region, including Manhattan Beach. Most recently, he served as the city manager for the city of Hawthorne.

“In Erick’s time with the city, he’s already made a positive impression by learning quickly, identifying infrastructure in need of improvement, and engaging with internal and external stakeholders to address community needs,” said Manhattan Beach City Manager Bruce Moe. “I have confidence that Erick will be a tremendous asset for the city as we continue to address ongoing maintenance needs as well as critical capital improvement projects.” 

Moe cited Lee's experience in implementing City Council priorities/initiatives, collaborating on regional projects, securing and administering state and  federal grants, ensuring compliance with regulatory agencies, implementing capital projects, and working effectively with the communities he’s served.

Lee has a master's in public administration and a bachelor's degree from California State University, Northridge. In 2008, he was recognized by the city of Beverly Hills with an Employee Excellence Award for Outstanding Job Performance.